Tennessee Attorney Suspended for Six Years Amidst Professional Misconduct Allegations
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Nashville, TN – The Supreme Court of Tennessee has imposed a six-year suspension on attorney Steven Michael Hodgen, effective August 15, 2025. The suspension includes five years of active suspension followed by a period of probation contingent upon the appointment of a practice monitor. This disciplinary action stems from allegations of serious professional misconduct, raising critical questions about ethical obligations within the legal profession.
Details of the Disciplinary Action
A formal Petition for Discipline, initiated by the board, detailed several concerning allegations against Mr. Hodgen. These included representing a client without ever having spoken to them, failing to adequately communicate with clients about their case status, and neglecting to diligently pursue litigation. Further accusations involved failing to respond to crucial motions in a timely manner, neglecting to discuss case details with the complainant, and ultimately abandoning the client, perhaps prejudicing their rights.
Following a thorough hearing, the Hearing Panel concluded that Mr. Hodgen’s conduct violated multiple Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct. these violations encompassed failures in competence (rule 1.1), scope of portrayal (Rule 1.2), diligence (Rule 1.3), communication (Rule 1.4), expediting litigation (Rule 3.2),candor toward the tribunal (rule 3.3), fairness to opposing counsel (Rule 3.4(d)), and overall misconduct (Rules 8.4(a), (c), and (d)). These rules are designed to uphold the integrity of the legal system and protect client interests [[Rules of Professional Conduct]].
Did You Know? the Tennessee Board of Professional Duty investigates complaints against attorneys, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and protecting the public?
Key Details Summarized
| Date of Suspension | Duration of Active Suspension | Remaining Period | Key Violations |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 15, 2025 | Five Years | One Year (Probation) | Rules 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4(d),8.4(a), (c), (d) |
mr.Hodgen is now required to fulfill the stipulations outlined in Tennessee Supreme court Rule 9, Sections 28 and 30.4, which govern the responsibilities of suspended attorneys and the process for potential reinstatement. This includes demonstrating a commitment to rehabilitation and a renewed understanding of ethical obligations.
Pro Tip: Attorneys facing disciplinary action have the right to legal counsel and can appeal the decision to higher courts.
what steps can be taken to prevent similar instances of professional misconduct in the future? How can the legal profession better support attorneys in upholding ethical standards?
attorney discipline is a critical component of maintaining public trust in the legal system. The Tennessee Supreme Court’s actions in this case underscore the importance of adherence to the Rules of Professional Conduct. Similar cases involving attorney misconduct are seen across the United States, often stemming from issues of communication, diligence, and conflicts of interest. The increasing complexity of legal practice and the pressures faced by attorneys contribute to these challenges, highlighting the need for ongoing education and support within the profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an active suspension in legal terms? An active suspension prevents an attorney from practicing law for a specified period.
- What does probation entail for a suspended attorney? Probation typically involves monitoring and adherence to specific conditions before reinstatement is considered.
- What are the Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct? These rules govern the ethical behavior of attorneys in Tennessee, ensuring fairness and integrity in the legal system.
- Can a suspended attorney appeal the Supreme Court’s decision? Yes, attorneys have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions to higher courts.
- what is a practice monitor? A practice monitor is appointed to oversee an attorney’s practice and ensure compliance with ethical standards during a probationary period.
We hope this report provides valuable insight into this meaningful legal matter. Do you have thoughts on this story? Share your comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest breaking news and in-depth analysis.
